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Swyer-James-McLeod's syndrome and pneumothorax on same side: delay in chest drain removal despite full expansion
Nadeem Anwar1, Rajesh Yadavilli, Kamal Ibrahim
1Department of Respiratory Medicine, Royal Bolton Hospital, Bolton, UK. drgondal@gmail.com
Abstract:
Swyer-James-McLeod's syndrome (SJMS) occurs as a result of childhood recurrent respiratory infections. As this condition presents with few symptoms, if any, it may pass unnoticed until adulthood. The authors are presenting a case of a 17-year-old male admitted with spontaneous pneumothorax. Even though his lung expanded, his chest x-rays still mimicked a pneumothorax. Chest CT pulmonary angiogram was needed to confirm the diagnosis of unilateral SJMS. Diagnostic difficulty arose because both conditions were on the same side.
Insights
Swyer-James-McLeod's syndrome, a rare lung condition from childhood infections, can be challenging to diagnose in adults. A CT pulmonary angiogram was crucial for identifying unilateral SJMS in a teen presenting with spontaneous pneumothorax.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Radiology
- Pediatric Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Swyer-James-McLeod's syndrome (SJMS) is a rare post-infectious pulmonary complication.
- It often results from childhood recurrent respiratory infections, leading to obliterative bronchiolitis and air trapping.
- SJMS may remain asymptomatic or present subtly until adulthood, complicating diagnosis.
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